Rubio’s Rally In Franklin Was One Of His Biggest

Perhaps as many as 3,000 turned out for a campaign rally Sunday afternoon in Franklin for Florida Senator Marco Rubio. Staffers said it was one of their largest events so far this election season.

The Republican presidential contender made Middle Tennessee his first stop after Saturday’s closely watched primary in South Carolina, where he came in 10 points behind businessman Donald Trump.

The Williamson County crowd was large enough that they moved the event to a Cool Springs parking lot, despite the threat of rain. In a 30-minute speech, Rubio stressed his youth and Latino heritage.

“I will bring this party together faster than anyone else in this race,” he said to applause. “It’s not just enough to come together. We have to grow this party.”

Appearing alongside Rubio were Brentwood Congressman Marsha Blackburn and former Congressman Zach Wamp of Chattanooga.

Rubio faces a steep challenge in winning Tennessee. Trump has topped recent polls in the state. And Texas Senator Ted Cruz has built an extensive campaign operation here.

Any momentum may also be a little late for Tennesseans who have already cast their ballots. Early voting has been going since February 10 and ends Tuesday.

Rubio talked about possibly launching TV ads to help close the gap. He also said he could return to the state between now and primary day, March 1.

Rubio noted that Tennessee will allocate its delegates proportionately. Meaning he doesn’t have to win outright to do well.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich has announced he plans to campaign in Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville starting on Friday.